It's feeling a lot like Christmas! Legendary singer to perform in Auckland's CBD

Something Good will mark the start of Auckland’s festive season, with Kiwi music icon Bic Runga putting on a free show in the CBD. 

The Sway hitmaker will launch Auckland’s Christmas festivities on November 21 at 7.30pm, when the traditional 18m Christmas tree will light up the waterfront’s Te Komititanga Square. 

The event marks the start of a month-long programme featuring entertainment, seasonal experiences and other special events across Auckland’s city centre. 

A multi-award-winning singer, Runga wrapped up a nationwide tour promoting the release of her album Red Sunset earlier this year. 

Her multiplatinum debut, Drive, remains one of New Zealand’s most celebrated and cherished albums. 

In November 2016, Runga became the youngest inductee into the NZ Music Hall of Fame, and she became a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 2006 for services to music. 

Bic Runga performing her latest album Red Sunset in Hamilton this year. Photo / Levi Santana 

Heart of the City chief executive Viv Beck said it “wasn’t every day” that people got to see a live concert under Auckland’s giant Christmas tree and promised it would be a “special night”. 

“And that’s just the beginning. Local businesses are getting involved, with plenty of surprises and some great excuses to indulge along the way,” she said. 

Precinct Properties chief executive Scott Pritchard said it would be great to see people coming into the city and gathering in Te Komititanga to enjoy Christmas. 

“This outstanding civic space comes to life when it’s full of people, music and activity.” 

The Runga concert is one of several pre-Christmas entertainment offerings in the square. 

A Candlelight Gospel Choir will perform the following Saturday at 7.30pm, with visitors urged to make a gold-coin donation to support the Auckland City Mission. 

On December 13, local Japanese drumming group Tamashii Taiko put on a high-energy set in the square. 

Businesses around Te Komititanga will also promote special-edition products, seasonal menus and one-off experiences.